top of page
WWII
Through Russian Eyes

As the American Collections Manager, diplomacy was literally in my hands.

​​

This fascinating traveling exhibit directed by Mark Talisman, Founding Vice Chairman of Washington DC's Holocaust Museum, had 500 items on loan, out of the Russian Central Armed Forces Museum in Moscow for the very 1st time. The exhibit of these emotionally charged items would immerse guests behind enemy lines in a dramatic walkthrough of large dioramas. At the end of the journey, participants found themselves in a recreation of Hitler's bunker, viewing the actual war maps he used, Hitler's, shoes, Stalin's coat and pistol, the Key to the Reichstag, flags, partisan puppets, a crumbling section of the Berlin wall, among other sensitive items that were on display throughout the experience. As these items were being seen for the first time, the exhibit was an exercise in trust and diplomacy between 2 nations who were once allies in the war. The care and security of the artifacts were of great importance. 

​

I was originally brought onto the exhibit production team to source and work with the mannequin and textiles, and I quickly advanced into the role of "collections management liaison" researching and advising on the display, care, and travel considerations for all artifacts. My job was somewhat as a peacemaker. I kept everyone happy, consulting creatively with the Russian exhibit designer so that the artifacts were better protected while the Americans wanted to ensure the participants still felt immersed in the diorama experience.  As a result of my liaison services, we were able to keep the successful diplomatic and financial relationship between the Russians and the Americans intact. Mark Talisman on the American team remained a mentor to me until his death in 2019.

​

WWII and conservation.JPG

©2022 by Lola Lombard Creative.

bottom of page